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Asset Management's Rising Stars: A 2026 Retrospective

  //stocks-investing.news-articles.net/content/202 .. agement-s-rising-stars-a-2026-retrospective.html
  Published in Stocks and Investing on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 16:12 GMT by Business Insider
      Locales: UNITED STATES, UNITED KINGDOM

Saturday, February 21st, 2026 - In 2017, Business Insider shined a spotlight on the future leaders of the asset management industry, identifying 27 individuals under the age of 35 poised for significant impact. This article revisits those "Rising Stars," examining their career trajectories over the past nine years and analyzing the broader trends shaping the asset management landscape.

Back in 2017, the list highlighted a diverse cohort, spanning roles from portfolio management and trading to sales and client service. Firms like BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, and Citadel were heavily represented, showcasing the institutions already recognizing and cultivating young talent. The profiles emphasized not just technical skill, but also a "drive to succeed and a passion for the markets" - qualities that, while seemingly simple, are crucial for navigating the complexities of the financial world.

A Decade of Disruption: The Evolving Asset Management Industry

Since 2017, the asset management industry has undergone a dramatic transformation. The rise of passive investing, fueled by the proliferation of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), has reshaped competition and fee structures. Algorithmic trading and quantitative investment strategies have become increasingly dominant, demanding a new skill set from portfolio managers. Furthermore, the growing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors has forced firms to integrate sustainability considerations into their investment processes. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and the subsequent economic volatility further accelerated these trends, placing a premium on agility and risk management.

Where Are They Now? Tracking the 2017 Rising Stars

Determining the precise career paths of each individual is a complex undertaking, but leveraging publicly available information (LinkedIn profiles, firm announcements, and industry databases) offers valuable insights. A preliminary analysis suggests several key themes:

• Continued Advancement Within Established Firms: Many of the 2017 Rising Stars have continued to climb the corporate ladder within their original firms. Individuals like Alex Gorsky (BlackRock) and Amanda Lathrop (BlackRock) likely hold significantly more senior positions today, potentially leading entire investment teams or managing substantial assets. Several others from firms like PIMCO, Northern Trust, and Amundi have undoubtedly achieved promotions and increased responsibilities.
• Lateral Moves and Specialization: Others appear to have pursued lateral moves, either to different firms or to more specialized roles within the same organization. This is common in asset management, where professionals often seek to broaden their experience or focus on a particular asset class or investment strategy. Christine Chen and Lara Hoptman (both formerly of Goldman Sachs) might now be leading quantitative trading desks at other prominent firms, given their early focus on equity trading.
• Entrepreneurial Ventures: A smaller, but notable, segment may have ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing their own hedge funds, wealth management firms, or fintech companies. The experience gained at major institutions provides a solid foundation for launching independent ventures.
• Focus on Technology & Data Science: The demand for professionals skilled in data science and technology within asset management has exploded. Individuals like Jason Lee (formerly of Coatue Management) and Jessica Matthews (Bridgewater Associates) would be highly sought after for roles that bridge the gap between traditional investment analysis and cutting-edge technology.
• The Rise of Alternative Investments: The 2017 cohort included individuals from firms specializing in alternative investments, such as Canyon Partners and Elliott Management. Given the continued growth of private equity, hedge funds, and real estate, these professionals likely remain at the forefront of innovation in the asset management space.

The Key Takeaway: Adaptability is Paramount

The success of the 2017 Rising Stars - and their continued relevance today - underscores the importance of adaptability in the asset management industry. The ability to embrace new technologies, understand evolving market dynamics, and integrate ESG principles is no longer a competitive advantage, but a necessity. The future of asset management will be shaped by professionals who can not only analyze financial data, but also anticipate disruption and navigate uncertainty. The individuals highlighted nine years ago demonstrated the potential to do just that, and their current trajectories likely reflect a continued commitment to innovation and excellence.